Thom Hall CFP, ChFC, CEPA
Managing Director, Partner & Wealth Advisor
Warm Hearts & Warm Churros
For the past several years, we’ve had a tradition of making churros for trick-or-treaters on Halloween. We bought a churro press years ago for one of our firm’s fall family festivals, and it seemed a shame to let it sit idle. It’s now become a neighborhood expectation, apparently even drawing folks from nearby communities.
It’s quite the operation. Inside the house, the flour is baked at 350 degrees, then mixed with boiling water to form hot dough that goes straight into the press. Outside, we’ve got a Camp Chef stove on the lawn with two pots of oil at 375 degrees, trays for drying the fried churros, cinnamon & sugar for sprinkling, and paper for wrapping them. It’s a full-blown assembly line.
If we have six or seven people, things run smoothly. This year, Liz, Sarah (15), and Kathryn (21) joined in. Amid the bustle, my neighbor Adam wandered over. We hadn’t seen much of him since his recent divorce, and truthfully, I wasn’t sure how to reconnect. He offered to help, and before long, he was staging warm churros and chatting with us as waves of kids came by.
He stayed for over an hour. And while I was grateful for his help, I was even more grateful for the connection. I imagine it wasn’t just the warmth of the fryer he appreciated that night; it was being part of something again.
We all face unexpected challenges in life, and sometimes the simplest gestures, like an invitation to join in or a shared laugh over churros, can remind us that healing often starts with belonging.
This Halloween, I was reminded that gratitude often shows up disguised as community, as a chance to open the door (and our hearts) to someone who needs it most.
“A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself.”
— Oprah Winfrey
Smart Holiday Spending: Enjoy the Season Without Stress
The holiday season is a wonderful time to celebrate with family and friends, but it can also bring financial pressure if spending gets out of hand. With a little planning and mindfulness, you can enjoy the season’s spirit of giving without the January regret.
1. Start with a Realistic Budget
Before the shopping begins, decide how much you can comfortably spend, not just on gifts, but also on travel, food, decorations, and holiday events. Be honest with yourself about what fits your budget. A quick tip: set aside a specific dollar amount per category and track it as you go.
2. Make a List (and Stick to It)
It sounds simple, but it works. Write down who you plan to buy for and ideas within your price range. Having a plan keeps you from buying extra “just in case” gifts that can quietly double your total spending.
3. Shop Early and Wisely
Starting early helps you take advantage of sales and avoid last-minute markups. Compare prices online, use discount codes, and sign up for store alerts. Consider group gifts or experiences rather than more “stuff.” Shared memories often bring the most lasting joy.
4. Be Strategic with Credit Cards
If you use a credit card for holiday purchases, try to choose one that offers cashback or travel rewards and pay off the balance as quickly as possible. Carrying balances into the new year can make those gifts much more expensive than you intended.
5. Get Creative and Personal
Homemade gifts, handwritten letters, framed photos, or acts of service can mean more than something bought in a store. Small gestures that come from the heart often have the greatest impact and they don’t break the bank.
6. Plan for Next Year
Once the holidays wrap up, take a moment to reflect. How did your spending feel… generous, balanced, or stretched? Consider setting up a “holiday fund” in January and contributing a little each month. By next December, you’ll be ready to celebrate stress-free.
Bottom line: A thoughtful plan helps you stay focused on what really matters, which is connection, gratitude, and joy. With mindful spending, you can make this season memorable and financially comfortable.
Recommended Resource
Landon Decoursey, Associate Wealth Advisor, recommends that as we look ahead to the coming year, it’s a great time to ensure your benefits are aligned with your needs and goals. To make that process easier, he suggests reviewing the comprehensive Benefits Plan Review Checklist to help you stay organized and confident in your decisions.
